Word
unplugged
Phoneticsun·plugged, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈənˈpɫəɡd/
UK/ʌnplˈʌɡd/
Definition
adj. describing music that is played with acoustic instruments instead of electric ones. You use this when a band plays without loud amplifiers or electronic effects.
adj. referring to a style of musical performance using acoustic rather than electric instruments. Often used to describe intimate, stripped-back versions of popular songs.
Examples
“The band played a beautiful unplugged version of their hit song.”
“The singer decided to record an unplugged album to showcase her natural vocal range without heavy studio production.”
“By choosing an unplugged format for the charity gala, the rock group transformed their high-energy anthems into delicate, folk-inspired arrangements that resonated deeply with the quiet audience.”
Examples
simple
“The band played a beautiful unplugged version of their hit song.”
contextual
“The singer decided to record an unplugged album to showcase her natural vocal range without heavy studio production.”
complex
“By choosing an unplugged format for the charity gala, the rock group transformed their high-energy anthems into delicate, folk-inspired arrangements that resonated deeply with the quiet audience.”
Usage
Typically used as an adjective before a noun or after a linking verb like 'sound' or 'be'.
Real-World Examples
“But unplugged from the mains, they only last as long as the energy held within their batteries.” “And when they unplugged and left the stage, no encore followed, and none was demanded.” Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/unplugged